The newly rebranded DHL Stormers XXIII are ready to launch an immediate assault on the Carling Currie Cup title, starting with a massive opening clash against the Suzuki Griquas at DHL Stadium this Friday at 19:05 (SA Time).
The match marks a historic milestone for the Western Cape franchise, which is competing under a unified Stormers banner for the first time in rugby's oldest domestic competition.
Assistant coach Dewaldt Duvenage revealed that excitement has reached a boiling point after more than a month of intense preseason preparation under new head coach Tom Dawson-Squibb. Duvenage made the team’s lofty ambitions clear from the outset.
"We’re going full-out to win this competition," Duvenage stated. "There's a lot of heritage in this competition, so that's our goal. We always want to do the badge justice with our performance."
Experienced scrumhalf Stefan Ungerer added that a fresh coaching perspective, combined with intense internal competition, has thoroughly energised the squad.
"I think the boys are buzzing to get out there," Ungerer said. "The guys have been working hard for five or six weeks now, so you can see there’s real energy and excitement to get the competition going."
With a deep roster blending youth and experience, Ungerer emphasised that no one can afford to coast during selection.
"I don’t think anyone’s place in the team is guaranteed, and we’re all out there fighting to get into that starting XV or match 23. It’s just about setting the example and the standards of what Stormers rugby is all about. We want to train well, play well, and be competitive in whatever competition we represent."
While aiming for a victorious start on home soil, the Cape side is fully prepared for a characteristically physical battle against the men from Kimberley.
Duvenage acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that the "Griquas are a pretty good team, as they’ve shown over the years."
Ungerer, a former Griquas player himself, warned that the visitors thrive in the underdog role.
"They love upsetting a big union," Ungerer concluded. "We know we’ve got a proper game ahead of us on Friday and we’re excited for it."